A new report highlights the astonishingly positive effect that pro-life pregnancy centers have had on the economy. Clearly, a primary achievement of these medical facilities is to care for mothers and their unborn babies, but the money-saving numbers are too impressive to ignore.
The report, released by the research arm of the pro-life advocacy organization Susan B. Anthony List, the Charlotte Lozier Institute, examined some 2,600 pregnancy centers across the United States. The institute estimated that, in 2017 alone, these centers saved their communities $161 million in total costs and helped some two million people.
The first freestanding pregnancy centers opened in 1968 in Toronto, Canada, and since then they have become a central element of pro-life care in the United States. There are currently 2,750 pregnancy centers currently operating in the U.S.
Not only is there a growing number of centers offering life-saving treatment and curbing the skyrocketing abortion figures, but they are also improving across the board. The latest research indicates that more than seven in 10 locations now offer free ultrasounds — that marks a 24 percent increase since 2010.
The report also details some of the incredible outcomes that are being achieved through the work of faith-based pregnancy centers:
“Community-based pregnancy centers through their service accomplishments contribute to positive outcomes in maternal and child health, women’s health, and family well-being. They are increasingly being recognized for their impact and standing in communities across the country. As providers of alternatives to abortion, pregnancy centers have sought to accomplish their objectives and mission in ways that have made them models of community- and faith-based action.”
There are roughly 67,000 volunteers serving pregnancy centers throughout the U.S., with 7,500 medical professionals using their skills to help women and their unborn babies. But these amazing places don’t just support the women while they are pregnant, they also provide aftercare when necessary. Last year, some 24,000 post-abortion support clients were referred for counseling, support and professional help as required.
“Through the leadership and guidance of national as well as smaller networks, pregnancy centers have grown into a global movement,” the report notes.
Earlier this year, Pastor John Hagee opened a new facility dedicated to supporting pregnant women in crisis. The vast new facility, Sanctuary of Hope, was built to assist women who are unsure about their capacity to raise a child because of their life circumstances.
“We don’t believe that abortion should ever be the answer, but it is not enough to simply believe – we must continue to take a moral and biblical stand against this practice, and provide an alternative for these young mothers who at times feel they have no other option,” Hagee said of the vision behind his new initiative. “With your help, we will give them, and their unborn children, a future and a hope…a Sanctuary of Hope.”
(H/T: The Christian Post)